Control of methane emission from heavy oil wells by gas clustering and utilization

Abstract

A study was undertaken to investigate the means of controlling casing gas (methane) emissions from heavy oil wells in the Lloydminster area in Canada. The study was aimed at providing a better understanding of the current casing gas methane emissions in the area and evaluating the potential for reducing these emissions by alternative technologies. Current casing gas emissions in the area were evaluated based on the best available information, and a database was established. Short-term trends of casing gas availability were forecasted. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was employed to simulate a multi-level gas clustering process. An optimization model was developed to evaluate potential technology applications and to find the least-cost solutions for reducing methane emissions in the study area.